Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real (POTR) are a band on fire. The tight-knit quintet is celebrating their return to the road and bringing their dedicated fanbase along their magical, musical journey. On Saturday, October 23, Lukas and his mates had a spirited DC crowd in a tizzy at The Lincoln Theatre. Playing their first show in DC Proper since May 2016 (Gypsy Sally's), Lukas & POTR reminded us of that elusive feeling. That feeling that only happens when a band and the crowd are united as one. Bodies were moving and (masked) faces were glowing as sacred music filled the room in the historic  DC theatre. 

The band is touring in support of their new album, A Few Stars Apart, released in June 2021. It features a collection of songs that showcases a combination of Nelson's stellar songwriting and the band's supreme musicianship. Written during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lukas was able use the first "down time" of his life to reflect on his musical odyssey. The result is a masterpiece album that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. 

Lukas & POTR treated the crowd to live renditions of most of the new album – songs that featured Lukas on electric and acoustic guitars, as well as piano. POTR consists of Lukas Nelson (lead vocals, guitar, piano), Anthony LoGerfo (drums, percussion), Corey McCormick (bass guitar, vocals), Logan Metz (keyboards, lap steel, guitar, harmonica, vocals), and Tato Melgar (percussion). The talent and cohesion was on full display as the band transitioned seamlessly from full-on rockers to heartfelt ballads with a touch of real country in between.

One of the most poignant moments came late in set, when Nelson performed "Smile" solo on piano. The crowd stood transfixed, prisoners of the sheer beauty Lukas shared with us. It was a moment trapped in time. A moment that will live forever in our memories. And we can't help but smile.